While I am busy writing this emotional post
living in a faraway land,
back home in India
the picture must be something like this:
All the small clay lamps are lit up by now;
the yellow of the Marigold,
the red of the 'Kum-kum',
the pink of the Lotus,
the garlands, sequins
'puja thalis' and 'rangolis',
are all painting beautifully
the dazzling images of Diwali, The Festival of Lights.
The word 'Diwali' originates from the Sanskrit word 'Deepavali'
which means 'Rows of Lights' !
The auspicious 'Ammavaasa'
in the month of 'Kartik',
the glittering 'diyas' and lanterns,
and the beautiful fireworks and sound of crackers
announces the arrival of the most vibrant festival of my country.
While my humble nest is slowly getting the makeover
for 'The Festival of Joy and Happiness'
the lady of the house
is now deeply missing
the magical flavour of her motherland.
When the whole world is soaking in
the warm autumn colours...
happy yellow, bright orange
burnt red and gold...
then comes 'Diwali',
our very own 'Autumn Festival'!
Diwali celebrates the return of Lord Rama
after his 14 years of exile...
this is The Festival of Home Coming
Yes, happy home coming.
Yes, for me Diwali means India.
To be precise, it is Delhi,
the gorgeous capital city
which is ever enthusiastic
in celebrating life.
Beautiful autumn in Northern India,
fragrant, crisp air,
people dressed in vibrant colours,
a festive mood everywhere,
'pujas' in temples,
flowers and garlands,
Marigold and Lotus,
'Haldi' and 'Kum-kum',
long queues in front of 'mithai' (sweet) shops,
fairs and exhibitions in every nook and corner,
and dazzling fireworks in display ;
Yes, I can keep going on and on...
To add, special offerings made to Goddess 'Lakshmi',
The Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity.
This is the festival
to drive away the shadows of evil,
to enlighten the inner soul,
to express the warm Indian hospitality.
This is another gorgeous 'Diwali'
in this little tropical island.
I am off to prepare some sweets for family and friends
(what is Diwali without homemade sweets)..
Please do not forget to share your thoughts on
what is your plan for this Diwali.
This is a pre-Diwali design post. For more inspirations, stay tuned.
Wish You All A Very Happy Diwali
and Dhanteras !!!
All pictures are photographed by me. Please, do not reuse them in any form without my written permission. Thanks.
linking:
betweennapsontheporch
